Researchers have deciphered the molecular language that cholera bacteria use to coordinate their infectivity. By interrupting the bacterium's chemical conversation, researchers may be able to stop cholera virulence.

Mario Capecchi received a Kyoto Prize from the Inamori Foundation in 1996. The lecture he delivered when he accepted the prize in Japan in November 1996 tells the story of his remarkable life. The text of the lecture has been edited for length.